By Leo Canaparo Tennis coach
Grass courts demand a different mindset and technique than clay or hard courts. The surface is faster, lower-bouncing, and more unpredictable due to its natural texture. To succeed on grass, players must make key adjustments, both physically and tactically. Here’s what every aspiring grass-court player needs to know.
STAY LOW—LOWER THAN USUAL
The number one rule on grass: bend your knees more than you think you need to. Balls stay lower after the bounce, so standing tall—common on clay or hard courts—leads to mistimed or framed shots. A low, compact stance allows for better balance, control, and consistency. Think of it as staying “grounded” both physically and mentally.
HIT THE BALL EARLY
Time is precious on grass. The ball skids through the court quickly, giving players less time to react. That’s why taking the ball early—often right after the bounce or even on the rise—is crucial. It not only gives your opponent less time but also keeps your own timing intact. Compact backswings and quick preparation are essential.
MOVE FORWARD
Grass rewards aggression. The low bounce and quick pace favor attacking players who take time away from their opponent. Whenever possible, move forward and look for chances to come to the net. Slices, drop shots, and flat approaches are very effective on this surface, opening up the court and applying constant pressure.
ADAPTABILITY IS KEY: AGASSI AND NADAL SHOWED THE WAY
You don’t have to grow up on grass to master it. Players like Andre Agassi and Rafael Nadal, who were raised on hard and clay courts, became Wimbledon champions by adapting their styles.
Agassi, known for his baseline power and return of serve, shortened his swings and improved his movement on grass to win Wimbledon in 1992. Nadal, a clay-court king, added more slice, improved his serve, and became more aggressive in his court positioning, which led him to titles at Wimbledon in 2008 and 2010.
Their success is proof that with the right adjustments, anyone can excel on grass—even if it’s not their natural surface.